Watford FC has a history of nurturing England internationals like Ashley Young, David James, and Tim Sherwood, and Adrian Mariappa has become a club legend with 340 appearances for the Hornets.
The club continues to develop young talent, with Ryan Andrews emerging as a notable prospect. At just 19 years old, Andrews has already made over 50 appearances since joining Watford in 2012 and is poised to play a significant role in the team this season.
| Ryan Andrews Watford Stats 2023/24 (FotMob) | |
|---|---|
| Appearances (Starts) | 26 (14) |
| Goals (Assists) | 3 (2) |
| Pass Accuracy | 68.5% |
| Tackle Success | 79.2% |
| Recoveries | 157 |
| Interceptions | 44 |
With Watford’s impressive history of developing impactful players, Tom Cleverley is keenly watching the U18 and U21 teams for emerging talent in the 2024/25 season. FLW has identified two potential stars who could become valuable assets for Watford and potentially generate significant revenue in the future.
Albert Eames
Albert Eames, 18, has been with Watford since he was nine and has become a key player in the club’s youth teams over the past decade. In the 2023/24 season, he was a regular for both the U21s and U18s and earned his first senior call-up in March, though he stayed on the bench for the match against Birmingham City. Eames soon got his first taste of first-team action on the final day of the season, making a brief appearance in the game against Middlesbrough.
Eames has been training occasionally with Tom Cleverley’s squad and appears to be highly regarded by the Watford manager. Introduced to the senior squad during Cleverley’s interim period five months ago, Eames has impressed with his crossing ability and defensive skills. A loan move could be on the horizon to provide him with crucial first-team experience and further develop his potential.
Jonathan Lawson
Unlike Eames, Jonathan Lawson, 18, joined Watford from Isthmian League Premier Division side Cray Valley Paper Mills last summer, rather than coming through the club’s youth system. After a standout first year in Hertfordshire, Lawson secured a new professional contract in May and is aiming for first-team opportunities, whether in training or as a substitute, later this season.
In pre-season, Lawson has been in impressive form for the U21s, scoring against Aldershot and Bedford Town, as he prepares for the upcoming 2024/25 campaign, which starts later for the youth teams compared to the senior squad.
A loan move could significantly benefit Jonathan Lawson in the coming months. With his height and technical skills, Lawson has the potential to make a breakthrough into the first team, both in the EFL and possibly at higher levels in the future.
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